Navigating the Journey: How to Help Your Child Adjust  to a New School

Choosing a new school for your child is a significant decision, and the transition can be challenging for both parents and children. Careful preparation and support are essential whether it’s a move within the same city or to a new country. Ann Djedid, Founding Principal of Queen’s Qatar, emphasises that a smooth transition is crucial for your child’s emotional well-being and academic success. She notes that a strong family unit and a well-orchestrated move positively impact a child’s overall well-being.

Here is a guide from Ann Djedid, Founding for parents to navigate this crucial period:

1. 1. Open Communication

      • • Discuss the Transition: Have open and honest conversations about the upcoming change. Encourage your child to express their feelings, concerns, and expectations. Listen attentively and address any worries they may have.
      • • Visit the New School: If possible, arrange a visit to the new school. Familiarise yourselves with the environment, meet the teachers, and explore the facilities. This can help ease anxiety and make the new setting feel more familiar.
      • • Understand the School’s Transition Process: Inquire about how the school supports new students and families during the transition.

1. 1. Maintaining Social Connections

      • • Address Social Concerns: The loss of friendships is often the biggest worry for children. Encourage your child to stay in touch with old friends through calls, messages, or video chats.
      • • Encourage New Friendships: Help your child get involved in extracurricular activities or clubs to build new relationships. Ensure they have a class buddy to assist with the adjustment.

1. 1. Parental Positivity

      • • Maintain a Positive Outlook: Ann Djedid advises that your attitude greatly influences your child’s perception of the transition. Highlight the exciting opportunities at the new school and stay positive, even if you feel apprehensive.
      • • Manage Personal Stress: Be mindful that your own stress about the move can transfer to your child. Maintain a calm and optimistic demeanour to help them feel secure.

1. 1. Academic Preparation

      • • Support Academic Readiness: Assist your child in preparing for the new curriculum, especially if it’s in a different language. Introduce subject content in advance to build their confidence.
      • • Establish Routines: Create a schedule for studying, homework, and extracurricular activities to provide structure and stability.

1. 1. Emotional Support

      • • Monitor Emotional Well-being: Be attentive to your child’s feelings. Validate their emotions and provide a safe space for them to express themselves.
      • • Seek Professional Support: If your child struggles, we suggest asking the school for access to additional support.

1. 1. Encourage Independence

      • • Foster Decision-Making: Allow your child to make choices about school activities and social interactions, helping them to feel more in control of their new environment.
      • • Celebrate Milestones: Recognise and celebrate small victories throughout the transition to boost your child’s confidence and resilience.

Ann Djedid highlights that parental involvement, emotional support, and effective communication play crucial roles in ensuring a successful transition to a new school. By implementing these strategies and supporting your child, you can help them navigate this period of change with confidence and resilience.

About Ann Djedid, Founding Principal, Queen’s Qatar

Ann Djedid, Founding Principal of Queen’s Qatar, brings over 30 years of international education experience. Qualified in Scotland and holding an MA in International Education from King’s College London, Ann has led two schools in Qatar to achieve prestigious PENTA (BSO) and QNSA accreditations. With a passion for learning and leadership, she is dedicated to creating an outstanding educational environment at Queen’s Qatar.